I love taking requests for handmade gifts. This year my littlest sister wanted chunky, slouchy, leg warmers and I was more than happy to knit them up. Not only did they turn out really cute, but they were a breeze to knit up. I thought I'd share this easy pattern in case you've got a stylish sister you need to keep warm. And of course you're probably going to want a pair for yourself too!! This is a great project for someone who wants to try knitting in the round but isn't ready to jump into the whole decreasing business that a hat requires.
To Knit Leg Warmers You'll Need:
US 11 (8.0 mm) 12" or 16" circular knitting needles
2 balls super bulky yarn (I used Loops & Threads Cozy Wool in Grey Sky, available at Michael's) 180 yards total
How To Knit Leg Warmers:
Cast on 34 stitches and join in the round
Knit 1, Purl 1 (to create ribbing) until your work is 2 1/2" long
Knit every stitch to create stockinette until your work is 13" long
Knit 1, Purl 1 for another 2 1/2"
Bind off and weave in the edges
Repeat for the second leg warmer.
Note: These are what I would consider a S/M women's size. Feel free to add stitches in sets of two to create a larger size.
Also, if you don't feel comfortable knitting in the round you could knit them on straight needles (skipping the whole join in the round bit). The middle section would have to be knit one row, purl one row, to achieve stockinette. Lastly, you'd have to seam them at the end. But seriously, seaming is harder than knitting in the round, I encourage you to try it!
If you like free knitting patterns I hope you'll check out my super simple knit hat, easy ribbed hat, and buttoned baby booties.
Happy Knitting!
